Surface Scientist Position at Vandstrom, Maryland

Surface Scientist Position at Vandstrom, Maryland, USA

We announce a Surface
Scientist position at Vandstrom located in Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA. The Surface Scientist is a member of the membrane R&D team who is responsible for the modification and characterization of porous substrates, with a particular focus on organic materials and biomolecules. The role involves contributing to a multidisciplinary research project aimed at developing biomimetic membranes for separation applications. Extensive work with membrane materials, protein immobilization, and analytical characterization of surface interactions is required.

The candidate will collaborate closely with Scientists and other team members within the R&D team, ensuring the implementation of project plans and achievement of milestones on key deliverables.

Position:
Surface Scientist

Reports To:

Head of Membrane Department

Role 1:
Research and Development

• Conduct surface modification of substrates using physical and chemical techniques such as UV treatment, plasma treatment, salinization, surface reaction, and polymer coatings.
• Develop, implement, and optimize surface modification strategies on various substrates and porous materials to examine their interaction with biological samples (e.g., proteins).
• Develop and optimize protein immobilization techniques on polymeric and inorganic porous substrates, such as metal affinity and covalent interactions.
• Perform surface characterization using XPS, FTIR, AFM, SEM, fluorescence imaging, confocal microscopy, and contact angle measurements.
• Responsible for developing testing assays and methods for evaluating the separation performance of developed membranes using HPLC, TOC, and tangential and dead-end testing setups.
• Responsible for training activities for lab technicians and research associates as needed.
• Conduct literature searches to stay informed about new technology within the field of interest to the group.
• Document and communicate research findings and progress through detailed reports, technical documents, research papers, and presentations. Ensure all documentation is accurate, comprehensive, and adheres to scientific standards.
• Support the head of the department in developing polymeric membranes to meet the company’s strategic goal.
• Work in conjunction and collaborate with Protein R&D groups in research efforts of Biomimetic membranes.

Role 2:
IP support

• Support the head of the department to execute experiments and research testing methodology to support related IP activities.

Requirements:

• MS/Ph.D. (Ph.D preferred) degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or related fields
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience working in an industrial bio-technology research laboratory (preferred) or academia
• Knowledge of surface chemistry and organic chemistry reactions.
• The ability to wear PPE for most of the day.
• The ability to carry or lift up to 30 pounds.
• The ability to stand or sit for an extended period.
• US work permit

Additional Qualifications:

• Experience with RO, NF, and UF membranes.
• Familiar with plotting software, such as Graph Pad Prism and Origin Pro.
• Experience with data processing, statistical analysis, and experimental design tools such as JMP.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• A natural curiosity and interest in new technology and ground-breaking scientific developments.
• Effective communicator in both verbal and written forms.
• Diligent; focus on details and efficiency in the laboratory while exercising good laboratory practice.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, work short cycle times, multi-tasking, and flexible hours if required, and deliver results under pressure.
• Ability to work independently and maintain a high level of quality in work.